Selastele pictum
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| Selastele pictum | |
|---|---|
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| Shell of Selastele pictum (holotype at MNHN, Paris) | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Mollusca |
| Class: | Gastropoda |
| Subclass: | Vetigastropoda |
| Order: | Trochida |
| Family: | Calliostomatidae |
| Genus: | Selastele |
| Species: | S. pictum |
| Binomial name | |
| Selastele pictum Marshall, 1995 | |
Selastele pictum is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusc in the family Calliostomatidae,[1] a group of marine gastropods known for their intricately patterned and often colorful shells. First described by B.A. Marshall in 1995, this small but fascinating species is a part of the diverse and complex ecosystem of deep-sea mollusks.
Morphology and identification
The height of the shell attains 6 mm.
The shell of Selastele pictum is relatively small, reaching a height of approximately 6 millimeters. Its structure exhibits the characteristic conical shape typical of Calliostomatidae, with fine sculptural details that may help distinguish it from closely related species. The name pictum suggests a visually distinctive or patterned shell, though further studies are needed to provide a comprehensive description of its coloration and texture.[2]
Habitat and distribution
This species is found in the Western Central Pacific, particularly around the Loyalty Islands. It inhabits deep-sea environments, typically residing at depths of around 370 meters. As a benthic organism, S. pictum is adapted to life on the ocean floor, where it likely plays a role in the local marine food web.
Ecological role and behavior
While little is known about the specific behavior of Selastele pictum, it can be inferred that, like other members of its family, it feeds on detritus, algae, or microorganisms present on the seabed. Its small size and deep-water habitat make it a relatively obscure species, with limited observations recorded.
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